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Breeding Supplies
Ever
thought of breeding lovebirds? Many people have, especially
enthusiasts that enjoy genetic mutations or handfed babies. It is
very interesting to watch a pair of lovebirds cycle though breeding
and produce healthy offspring. However, breeding lovebirds is an
art as much as it is a hobby. Anyone can breed lovebirds but
breeding healthy lovebirds takes work and commitments form both you
and the parents.
Supplies
Before breeding can begin the proper supplies will be needed.
Having a good set of supplies will save you time and benefit the
birds. It’s important to constantly update and throw out old or
damaged supplies. This keeps your routine running smoother and it
is much safer for the birds. Below, several supplies are listed and
their uses.
Emergency Supplies
Before breeding lovebirds several supplies will be needed. Why?
Well anything can happen during the breeding season such as a
cracked egg, a dry hatch, or an abandoned baby. It is important to
be prepared and read up on information to make yourself aware of the
various accidents or problems that can happen.
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Brooders—Having
a brooder is very important. If the pair abandons their babies
the chicks will needed to be placed inside a brooder immediately.
The temperature should be set to 95◦F if the babies are newborns
and gradually dropped, until the babies are fully feathered.
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Thermometers—2
should be on hand. One should be placed inside the brooder and
one should be used to measure the formula temperature. The
formula needs to be between 106-108 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Medicine
Droppers—Medicine droppers and pipettes will be used to feed
newborns for first feedings.
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Unflavored
Pedialyte—Pedialyte is a great substitute for water. Pedialyte
should only be given the first week, until the digestive system is
working properly.
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Hand Feeding
Formula.—This can be your choice. Feeding formulas on the market
are great and many are designed for optimal health. Just be sure
to read the directions and specifications.
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Tweezers—If an
assisted hatch is needed, tweezers will be used to gently peel
back the shell. Make sure they are sterile and properly stored.
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Syringe/
Spoon—Syringes and spoons are needed to feed the checks as they
mature.
Housing
Supplies
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Cage—Choose an
appropriate cage that can be cut or has a door made for an
external nesting box. The doors should be able to accommodate
food bowls, toys, and your hands. Perches should be placed away
from food and water bowls. This will minimize droppings inside
their dishes. The cage should have a grill to prevent the birds
from touching or interacting with their droppings. Finally, the
cage should be easy enough to dismantle after the breeding season
for a proper cleaning.
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Perches—Perches
should be different sizes. This gives the birds exercise for
their feet. If different sized perches cannot be found then
natural tree branches can be used—eucalyptus, pine, or citrus
branches are just a few. Please do research before other tree
branches are used, as many plants and trees are toxic to birds.
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Bedding—Most
lovebirds construct their nest but bedding should be used as a
barrier between the wood and the nest. This will make an easier
cleanup after each clutch and add more cushion for the babies and
eggs. Aspen Shavings or Carefresh are optimal choices.
Bleach Solution—This is very important. All equipment should be
washed with this solution after each clutch. This ensures less
harmful bacteria and healthier chicks. It is important to wash off
breeding equipment with a bleach solution. The solution consists of
1 part bleach to 10 parts water.
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